Its about 1569 map Of the World
Compare a modern Mercator Projection of eastern North America with Mercator's map. How are the two maps different? How are they similar?
http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/b/b2/Mercator_1569.png
http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-zwuSDIzE_g0/TouhksRBidI/AAAAAAAACoI/v3XM0OK3Ggo/s1600/Mercator_projection_SW.jpg
To compare a modern Mercator Projection of Eastern North America with Mercator's map, here are the differences and similarities between the two:
Differences:
1. Scale Distortion: One of the main differences is the scale distortion present in both maps. Mercator's map had significant scale distortion, especially towards the poles, which resulted in exaggerated sizes of landmasses near the poles. The modern Mercator Projection has attempted to minimize this distortion but still isn't completely accurate.
2. Territory Outlines: The territorial outlines in the modern Mercator Projection will differ from the ones depicted in Mercator's original map. Throughout history, borders have changed due to colonialism, geopolitics, and international disputes. Thus, the outline of the Eastern North American continent may not match entirely between the two maps.
3. Technology and Detail: The modern Mercator Projection benefits from advanced mapping technology and more accurate geographic data, resulting in a higher level of detail and precision compared to Mercator's map.
Similarities:
1. Projection Type: Both maps utilize the Mercator Projection, which preserves accurate shapes of small areas while sacrificing accuracy in terms of size and distance.
2. Basic Landforms: The basic landforms such as coasts, mountains, and rivers will be generally recognizable in both maps. The primary shape and positioning of landmasses will be similar between the two maps, although the modern map may display more comprehensive details and updated geographical information.
3. Compass Directions: Both maps will have compass directions with north at the top, east to the right, west to the left, and south at the bottom. This orientation is a characteristic of the Mercator Projection.
It's essential to note that Mercator's map is a historical artifact created in the 16th century, while a modern Mercator Projection represents the most up-to-date geographical information available.
To compare a modern Mercator Projection of eastern North America with Mercator's map from 1569, you can follow these steps:
1. Search for a 1569 Mercator map: Start by searching for Mercator's original map of the World from 1569. You can find it in various online archives or specialized map libraries.
2. Find a modern Mercator Projection map of eastern North America: Look for a current Mercator Projection map of the eastern part of North America. You can use popular map websites or online mapping tools to find this.
3. Analyze the differences:
- Scale and proportion: Compare the scale and proportions of both maps. The modern map will likely have a more accurate and consistent scale, whereas the 1569 map may have distortions in size due to the limitations of the Mercator Projection.
- Accuracy of shapes: Check how accurately the shapes of coastlines, rivers, and other geographical features are portrayed in both maps. The modern map is more likely to be based on improved surveying and mapping techniques and, therefore, may have a higher level of accuracy.
- Political boundaries: Observe if there are any differences in political boundaries between the two maps, considering historical changes in borders and territories.
- Cartographic techniques: Pay attention to the style and symbols used on both maps. The 1569 map may feature elaborate embellishments, decorative elements, or cartographic conventions that differ from modern standards.
4. Identify the similarities:
- General layout: Observe the overall layout of the maps, including the positioning of landmasses, continents, and major bodies of water. Mercator's original projection aimed to minimize distortion and preserve direction, which should be evident in both maps.
- Orientation: Note if both maps share the same orientation, with the North generally at the top.
- Key features: Look for commonalities in prominent geographical features like major rivers, lakes, mountain ranges, or significant cities.
By following these steps, you can compare and contrast the modern Mercator Projection of eastern North America with Mercator's map from 1569, highlighting their differences and similarities.